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Brent Claflin Announces His Retirement As Southern Door Head Football Coach

2/4/2013 12:00:00 AM

By Nick Freimuth

After 23 years as head coach of the Southern Door High School football team Brent Claflin has announced he will not return next fall for his 24th season. Claflin's involvement with the program dates back to 1970 when he played for the Eagles. Mr. Claflin will continue to teach at Southern Door Elementary in his current role as 5th grade instructor.

After playing at Southern Door throughout high school, Claflin assisted head coaches Tom Van Lieshout and Jessie Harness prior to taking the head coaching position in 1990. He concludes his career with over 31 years of football coaching experience.

Southern Door starting quarterback and punter from 2007-2009 Nate Alberts went on to play collegiate football at Wisconsin Lutheran College. He said Coach Claflin was more than a great coach. He was a tremendous man and mentor.

Nate Alberts on playing for Coach Claflin.

"On behalf of the students and staff, we appreciate Mr. Claflin's dedication and leadership with the Southern Door football program. Several students have excelled and have gone on to be successful in college and professional careers in part to the foundation they received while participating in Southern Door football," said Patti Vickman, Superintendent, Southern Door School District.

Steve Bousley, Principal, Southern Door High School said, "Mr. Claflin is very dedicated to the success of the Southern Door football program and is invested in its long-term success. We appreciate everything that he has done and wish him the best as he continues his teaching career with us at Southern Door."

Mr. Claflin's resignation will be officially accepted by the Board of Education at its February 18th meeting.